The Fells Historic Estate and Gardens in Newbury held its annual Volunteer Appreciation event on Sunday, September 8. Over 125 Fells volunteers and guests gathered on the recently renovated Veranda to meet and mingle, and to welcome the new Executive Director, Susan Warren.

Volunteerism is key to The Fells, with over 150 active volunteers who work in all facets of the organization. This year the coveted (and twelfth since 2002) Volunteer of the Year Award went to Sally Bergquist and Tom Guterl for dedication and outstanding service to The Fells.

The Bunchberry Certificate of Excellence Award for Outstanding Contributions and Service in each department went to: Dave Barden for his work as House Guide; Owen Bastille for his work on the Landscape Team; Rose-Marie Batts for her work in the Nursery; Harvey Best of Andover for his work on the Maintenance Crew; Wally Borgen for her work on events; Suzanne Tether for her work on Education; and Jane Voss for her work in the Gatehouse office.

Also new this year, Board of Directors chair John Ferries presented the John Milton Hay Legacy Award to Perry Wheaton, who “represents the best values of The Fells and whose indelible impact and enduring legacy empowers others to achieve amazing volunteer accomplishments.”

For more information about becoming a Fells volunteer, contact Mary Lou McCrave of Andover at 763-47879 x6 or MLMcCrave@nullTheFells.org.